Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

Addiction is something we know destroys individuals and tears families apart. Moreover, like so many other conditions, early identification is the key to successful treatment. The earlier the addict can be treated, the greater the chances of achieving total recovery. The opposite is also true. Waiting too long to begin treatment only makes a full recovery that much more difficult.

The purpose of this post is to help you identify a potential addiction problem, whether you are the person suffering or a family member concerned about a loved one. To that end, we will approach the addiction question from both angles. We hope that by offering you the signs and symptoms of addiction we will be able to help you start down the road to recovery.

For Addicts: Symptoms of Addiction

Perhaps you suspect you might have a real problem with drugs or alcohol. Perhaps you are ready to consider looking into rehab centers if it can be proved to you that you have a problem. If that is the case, consider the following symptoms of addiction:

• you drink or take drugs first thing in the morning
• you plan your entire day around drugs or alcohol
• you find yourself worrying about having enough of your chosen substance
• you're willing to go to great lengths to obtain your substances
• you find drugs and alcohol interfering with routine tasksv
• you are defensive when others talk about your drug or alcohol use
• drug or alcohol use is causing you to push family members away
• you find that you need to increase the amount you use in order to feel the same amount of pleasure.

Any one of these symptoms could indicate you are on the road to addiction. If you notice more than one, you might already be addicted. The fact that you are willing to consider the symptoms of addiction means you have taken the first step toward recovery. Why not take the next step by contacting one of the many drug and alcohol rehab clinics in the UK?

For Families: Signs of Addiction

Families may have a more difficult time recognising addiction due to the fact that addicts become so adept at hiding their problems. However, families do not have to remain clueless. There are certain signs they can look for if they suspect a problem exists. A person addicted to drugs or alcohol will often:

• exhibit unexplained mood swings
• suddenly lose or gain weight inexplicably
• withdraw from family members and friends
• exhibit moderate to severe financial problems
• begin to form new circles of 'undesirable' friends
• disappear from normal life for several days at a time
• be very combative when confronted about drugs or alcohol
• be willing to steal from family members in order to support their habit.

While you may not be able to unequivocally prove a loved one is dealing with an addiction problem, a combination of a few of the signs is a good indication trouble exists. In such a case, the best thing family members can do is contact an addiction recovery referral service, a private clinic, or a doctor.

Alcohol and drug rehab clinics are available to provide treatment to those suffering with addiction issues. Whether you are the person suffering or a family member or friend, please take heed to the symptoms and signs we have listed here. If there is any indication of a problem, get help before it's too late.